eagerly, tyler nearly jumped at the sight of the treehouse she showed him.
his feet raced through the rough trail leading to the ladder, and finally his hands grasped on each side and he lifted himself up. he hadn't seen a treehouse in years, and his inner child from years ago was screaming and laughing with joy.
he pushed his body completely to the top and let out a small huff as his legs pushed him onto the wooden floor. he awaited for the girl to join him, meanwhile staring at the decent-sized wooden shelter.
there were small twigs used as decor for the inside, and a gaping hole where some fresh air could escape and enter back inside. tyler was in awe, and felt the most peace he had ever felt in years.
"you like it?" the girl questioned, reaching the top and pulling herself up to join him. she plopped next to him, but not too close, and on her face was a small grin.
"i haven't been in one in years," he responded. "i do have to admit that it's nice to experience one again."
she nodded. "i wish i could say i built it, but i didn't."
"how long has it been here?" he raised an eyebrow.
"at least a couple of years," she looked around. "you can tell by the wood. and i used to come here sometimes."
she suddenly looked a little down, but then raised her head and sighed. "anyways. when's the last time you've been in one?"
tyler's head was immediately filled with memories. he took a minute to let them sink in, and scratched his arm with a frown. "i never really talk about the past anymore, to be honest."
"why not?"
he considered her question and thought about a reply, but got interrupted.
"you shouldn't keep things inside, tyler. it's okay to let things out, i'm here." it looked like she was about to grab his hand, but then hesitated and looked at him instead.
"the last time i was in a treehouse was with my little sister," he began without making eye contact. "many years ago. we must have been eight years old."
he found his eyes begin to water, and she insisted. "let it out."
"i miss her so god damn much." he spilled, also letting out the tears. "i've never said that aloud before, i don't even know why," he wiped his eyes. "i miss her everyday."
the girl stared at him with sympathy, and pulled him in for a hug without exchanging words. tyler managed to accept it, and cried on her shoulder, finally releasing his emotions he had kept inside for so long.
~~~~
